Global Health Science and Epidemiology MSc

<strong>The information provided on this page was correct at the time of publication (November 2025). For complete and up-to-date information about this course, please visit the relevant University of Oxford course page via www.graduate.ox.ac.uk/ucas.</strong> <br/><br/>The MSc in Global Health Science and Epidemiology is a one-year, full-time course that provides intensive training in epidemiology and statistics to enable students to conduct and interpret research studies in important areas of population health.<br/><br/>The MSc is designed for students who would like to develop knowledge and skills to understand the global burden and major determinants of disease through the application of epidemiology and quantitative research methods. It provides opportunities for students to develop and enhance their critical appraisal and epidemiological research skills and prepares students for a major piece of population health research in a world-class environment.<br/><br/>The course aims to provide students with the knowledge and skills to:<br/><br/><br/>- understand the global burden and major determinants of disease;<br/><br/><br/>- describe and discuss the role and contribution of epidemiology to health;<br/><br/><br/>- critically appraise, analyse and interpret epidemiological studies;<br/><br/><br/>- select, devise and develop appropriate study designs for epidemiological research; and<br/><br/><br/>- conduct appropriate statistical analyses of epidemiological and health-related data.<br/><br/><br/>The MSc Global Health Science and Epidemiology is hosted by the Nuffield Department of Population Health. Teaching takes place on the Old Road Campus in Headington.<br/><br/>Course structure<br/>Teaching is delivered during the whole of the first two terms through a range of methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, tutorials, student presentations, self-directed learning and study. You will receive 15-20 hours of supported learning per week, and will be expected to undertake 20-25 hours of self-directed learning per week.<br/><br/>The first term will consist of an overview of the global burden of disease and the fundamental concepts and considerations in research methods and practice related to population health. During the second term and up to two weeks in the third term, in addition to some continued content of the compulsory modules, you will select four module options for further study. Details of the modules can be found under Course components. <br/><br/>The third term will involve a 12-week research placement with a project representing the range of subjects covered in the course. The department will have a series of projects to choose from each year, hosted by academics within and outside the department but you will also have the option to propose your own project. The research project will form the basis of a dissertation to be submitted in mid-August.<br/><br/>A series of masterclasses will be scheduled in which internationally-recognised senior scientists in population health from Oxford, and elsewhere, will give seminars on selected topics. These sessions will be outside of the structure of the core modules, and are intended to provide students with stimulating materials to integrate population health thinking and perspectives.<br/><br/>You will also have access to the weekly seminars held on the Old Road Campus and will be made aware of any other seminars taking place across the Medical Sciences Division. You will be welcome to attend the Medical Sciences Skills Training programmes if you wish.